PLANS for a new bus service through Newtown and Ronks- wood to Worcester city centre are looking hopeful, according to a city councillor.

Independent councillor Mike Layland said he had been in talks with the county council transportation department to set up the off-peak service, which would run along Spetchley Road, Nunnery Lane, Mortlake Avenue, Prestwich Avenue, Canterbury Road and Lichfield Avenue, before heading to the city centre.

Council officials asked Mr Layland to negotiate with the private operator to include the Wyld's Lane area of Worcester.

"I'm hopeful we'll be able to achieve something - even a pilot scheme to see how it goes would be a start," said Mr Layland, through whose Nunnery ward the route would pass.

"After that we can see what people want, and change it around a bit if needs be."

"I will be speaking to the operator about the revised changes to include Wyld's Lane and let them come up with charges and costs, but I'm convinced this can happen."

Mr Layland said the bus route was aimed predominantly at pensioners, but would also be useful to anyone wanting to travel across the estate.

A spokesman from Worcestershire County Council described the meeting as "positive".

"We discussed a number of options to provide a more accessible service to the people of Ronkswood and the area," he said.

But he added that plans were in the early stages.

"Councillor Layland has done some very helpful work, but it is still early days and we have to be sure that any measures we take fit in with the bigger picture.

"The meeting has definitely given some momentum to the issue, though, and it was a good step forward," he added.

No definite start date for the service has been agreed.

The Wyld's Lane addition to the route is yet to be finalised.

If you live in Ronkswood or Tolladine, and have a story, call reporter Sam Dansie on 01905 742257 or

e-mail: sd@thisisworcester.co.uk